Veteran Democrat strategist Terry Thompson has died

Terry Thompson, political advisor and campaign strategist for dozens of Democrats in the past three decades, has died. He was 57

Thompson passed away May 1 in Olympia, according to his brother, Pat. He did not disclose the cause of death.

Thompson’s association with Washington’s Democratic Party date back to the 1990s when he worked for the political arm of the House Democratic Caucus.

Through his firm, TR Strategies, he managed campaigns of several Democrats with ties to Snohomish County including current office-holders Sen. Steve Hobbs, D-Lake Stevens, and Rep. Ruth Kagi, D-Seattle.

His clients also included former Snohomish County executive Aaron Reardon and former state senator Jean Berkey.

Tributes from friends have been posted on Thompson’s Facebook page including this one from Hobbs:

Democrats lost a great political consultant and public servant. Terry was one of the best political consultants out there and understood swing districts and moderate candidates. His customer service, loyalty, and hard work was second to none. To me he was more than a political consultant, he was a stalwart friend and mentor and was the energy and engine to my campaigns. He was practically a father figure to me. Not only did he guide me during my first campaign but he taught me to be a better statesman and person. I will miss our time fishing, long talks and hanging out at Ben Moores listening to your stories about the good ol’ days.